1987 saw the release of the bands 14th studio album and became one of there best selling albums. The band was an anglo American with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks from the USA and Christine McVie, John McVie and Mick Fleetwood representing the UK.
The album was a 18 month project which was started by Lindsey but soon the whole band were emersed and the result was a classic rock pop album in the late 1980s.
The album was produced by Lindsey and long time collaborator Richard Dashut. It was released on Warner label in April 1987 and enjoyed huge success. It reached number one in the UK album charts and peaked at number 7 in the US album charts. To date the album has sold in excess of 15 million copies.
Such was the success of the album the singles released also enjoyed a halcyon period for the group but ultimately ended up as the last album this particular group did together.
The first release was Big Love and this was followed by Seven Wonders and Little Lies, all enjoying top 20 successes both sides of the pond.
The tracks on the album
Big Love
Seven Wonders
Everywhere
Caroline
Tango in the night
Mystified
Little Lies
Family Man
Welcome to the room Sara
Isn't it midnight
when I see you again
You and I part II
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Monday, July 25, 2016
George Michael Faith
This was the debut album by George after his split from the pop teen group Wham. Although during his spell with Wham he had released solo material notably Careless Whisper hitting number one and also working with Elton John and Aretha Franklin this was enough to give him the nudge that he could make it on his own.
In October 1987 he finally released the anticipated album Faith. The album was a huge success. The fact he wrote most of the songs, played most of the instruments and produced most of the work was a great testament and this was reflected in a new audience and the sales had soared both in the UK and America.
Previously his Wham material was all teeny pop sounds but the new album was a more adult soulful R&B sound with links to Motown, Jazz and Funk.
The Album was released on Columbia and Epic Records. The album reached number one in the UK and USA. To date the album has sold over 25 million copies. Another notable achievement was winning the Grammy award in 1989.
The album saw 6 singles released from it including Faith, Father figure and One More Try.
The tracks on the album are
Faith
Father Figure
I want your sex (Parts I&II)
One More Try
Hard Day
Hand to Mouth
Look at your Hands
Monkey
Kissing a Fool
In October 1987 he finally released the anticipated album Faith. The album was a huge success. The fact he wrote most of the songs, played most of the instruments and produced most of the work was a great testament and this was reflected in a new audience and the sales had soared both in the UK and America.
Previously his Wham material was all teeny pop sounds but the new album was a more adult soulful R&B sound with links to Motown, Jazz and Funk.
The Album was released on Columbia and Epic Records. The album reached number one in the UK and USA. To date the album has sold over 25 million copies. Another notable achievement was winning the Grammy award in 1989.
The album saw 6 singles released from it including Faith, Father figure and One More Try.
The tracks on the album are
Faith
Father Figure
I want your sex (Parts I&II)
One More Try
Hard Day
Hand to Mouth
Look at your Hands
Monkey
Kissing a Fool
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Belfast Child
This Week in 1989 Simple Minds gained there first UK number one single with the Gaelic melody of Belfast Child.
The song was released on the Ballad of the Streets EP which included the songs Mandela Day and Biko.
The lyrics were written by Simple Minds but the haunting tune was the old traditional Irish ballad called 'She moved through the Fair'. The song was over 6 minutes long which for Radio and TV was a bit on the long side so often the song was cut short.
The song was released on Virgin Records and was produced by Trevor Horn and Stephen Lipson.
The song would also feature on the future album release 'Street Fighting Years' which also hit the top spot.
The song was released on the Ballad of the Streets EP which included the songs Mandela Day and Biko.
The lyrics were written by Simple Minds but the haunting tune was the old traditional Irish ballad called 'She moved through the Fair'. The song was over 6 minutes long which for Radio and TV was a bit on the long side so often the song was cut short.
The song was released on Virgin Records and was produced by Trevor Horn and Stephen Lipson.
The song would also feature on the future album release 'Street Fighting Years' which also hit the top spot.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Love Will Tear Us Apart..35 years
35 years ago this week Joy Division completed the one and only promo video they made for the classic legendary song Love will Tear Us Apart.
The video was shot by the band themselves on the 28th April 1980 at TJ Davison studios where the band had previously rehearsed.
The video starts with singer Ian Curtis name carved on the door by an ex girlfriend who decided to send an abusive message as she knew they rehearsed there (the not nice words were etched out!).
The original production and sound was poor with some pictures etched in brown and the sync of the lyrics to video were noticeable but still it made this the more charming.
This was to be the last time the band would spend together as Ian took his life shortly after.
The video was shot by the band themselves on the 28th April 1980 at TJ Davison studios where the band had previously rehearsed.
The video starts with singer Ian Curtis name carved on the door by an ex girlfriend who decided to send an abusive message as she knew they rehearsed there (the not nice words were etched out!).
The original production and sound was poor with some pictures etched in brown and the sync of the lyrics to video were noticeable but still it made this the more charming.
This was to be the last time the band would spend together as Ian took his life shortly after.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Electric 80s
New Order - True Faith
The song was a big shift from there post punk days of the late 1970s as Joy division but the song showcased there talents on the electric dance scene. The song was released in 1987 and reached number 4 in the UK single charts and was there first song to hit the top 40 in America. The song was released as new material on there collection album 'substance' in 1987 and went on to become one of there famous songs. The video promo directed by Philippe Decoufle was a bizarre video with vibrant colours with dancers walking backwards and slapping each other furiously, it was compelling stuff. The song was written and produced by New Order and Stephen Hague and the song was released on the infamous Factory Records and assigned the FAC 183 label. A true classic song.
Ultravox - Vienna
Quite often a song comes along and for what ever reason although popular it never quite hits the top spot. Ultravox suffered that fate in 1981 where the song was number 2 for four weeks. It can be a combination of a better song or the British obsession with novelty records! unfortunately Ultravox suffered twice the first week to John Lennon and the next 3 weeks Joe Dolce 'shaddap your face'. The song was quite unique in it's sound with a mixture of Grand Piano, a deep synth bass and Viola solos in the middle. The song was based on the 1940s film 'The third man' which was based around the Austrian capital Vienna. This was reflected in the video the band produced which was very grandiose and suited the song. The song was written by all the Ultravox members and was produced by Conny Plank a famous German producer who worked with Kraftwerk and David Bowie amongst others. He was a big name in the synth electro sound and one Ultravox were keen to work with. The song is widely regarded as the anthem for the new romantic/synth pop era in the early 1980s and the song epitomised the new scene of music in the 1980s. The success helped encourage many more bands such as Depeche Mode to dominate the charts.
Lotus Eaters - The first picture of you
Lotus Eaters were a new wave synth band from Liverpool formed in the early 1980s. They shot to prominence after singing this song on BBC Radio 1 John Peel Sessions. The song sparked a plethora of record labels wanting to sign them up. They eventually signed to Arista Records and the song was produced by Nigel Gray who worked with the Police and Siouxsie and the Banshees. In 1983 the song received more radio air play than any other song that year. The song peaked at number 15 in the UK singles chart and the song is still played today for it's ambient sound which is easy on the ear for Radio. A true classic electric sound.
Tears for Fears - Mad World
This song in late 1982 took the charts by storm and peaked at number 3 in the UK charts and shot the band into the mainstream. The song was to be a b side to 'Pale Shelter' but decided it give its own life and what a masterstroke it was. The song was produced by Chris Hughes ex-Adam and the ants drummer and was written by Roland Orzabel about his images and dreams of his world. The promo video was a gloomy affair with Curt Smith trying to escape a room but was punctuated with the bizarre dance of Roland near the lake. The song was a popular one of the 1980s and can be seen on most compilations. The song was rejuvenated in 2003 when a remake for the Donnie Darko film saw the song become a Christmas Number One. A true classic synth/gloom song.
A flock of Seagulls - Wishing (If I had a photograph of you)
Possibly without sounding too hyped one of the all time classic new wave synth sounds of the early 1980s. This band from Liverpool scored there only top 10 UK hit with this gem. The song was released from the album Listen and was produced by the fijian maestro Mike Howlett who had success with OMD, Joan Armatrading, Gang of Four and Martha and the Muffins amongst others. The song was very heavily synth and became popular in the UK around that time and the success of this song was as good as it got for the Flocks but definitely opened the door for others to take on. such was it popularity it was heavily played on MTV early days due to it's futuristic appeal. The song was also voted in BBC Radio 6 2006 poll as the 2nd most popular synth song ever only beaten by Tubeway Army 'are friends electric?'. That gives you the measure of the song.
Art of Noise - Close (to the edit)
This innovative band became one of the best respected synth pop bands of its generation. The release of Close shown the full use of electronic music with sampling. Signed to ZTT records the founders of this label found time to form a four piece band and produce some classic material. The song was written and produced by Art of Noise in particular the key members were Trevor Horn and Paul Morley and the song became the first of three top 10 entries in the UK singles chart. The song was infamous for it's various remixes and was originally the unedited part of the earlier single 'Beat Box' but this song went onto become more successful.
Visage - Fade to Grey
Another classic electric song from the synthpop generation. Visage released this song late 1980 and the song went on to become a dance floor hit in the UK reaching the top 10 and was number one in various charts across Europe. The song was released on Polydor records around the same time as the album was released and was written and produced by Visage. Although the writing credits were given to Billy Currie, Chris Payne and Midge Ure. The French Lyrics were performed by Brigitte Arens who was Rusty Egan's girlfriend at the time. The song was also noted for it's video promo which featured the singer Steve Strange body being covered in paint and featured his friend Julia Fodor miming the French lyrics. The video was produced and directed by Godley & Crème. A true classic song which embraced the electric and euro pop feel and the song still holds relevance now.
Frankie goes to Hollywood - Relax
If there was one single that gained controversy in the 1980s then this was the one. It was the bands first single release and it didn't make much impact when released but when Radio One DJ Mike Read and the BBC refused to play the song for it's sexual nature and subsequently banned it, the song rose up the charts and reached number 1. Such was it's popularity it sold over 2 million copies and was the seventh best selling single in the UK. The song was pretty much in the charts for over a year and when they released there second single Two Tribes, Relax got another surge and was number 2! The band played the song originally on Channel 4 The Tube and a certain producer Trevor Horn saw this and signed them to ZTT records which he co owned with Paul Morley. He set to work on this and produced a more slick electronic sound. Once produced Paul Morley set to work on the marketing side where the Relax t-shirts etc..became the norm. Soon everyone heard of Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
David Bowie - Ashes to Ashes
This was a classic gem released in 1980 and was successful in its sound and the video promo that accompanied the song. The song was based on Major Tom who featured in his earlier work on space oddity. The song was a huge hit and reached number 1 on the UK single charts. It was released on RCA records and was produced as well by Bowie and his long time producer Tiny Visconti. The video was very iconic for the 1980s with Bowie in a Pierrot costume and leading certain group of new romantics including Steve Strange of the London Blitz kids. The video at the time cost over £250,000 and incorporated many visuals that were unusual at the time such as solarised colours. The song and video were a major influence on the New Romantic scene that followed shortly after. A true classic song.
Falco - Rock Me Amadeus
This song became the first German speaking song to hit number one in the UK and USA singles charts. Released in 1985 this Austrian artist enjoyed great success in Europe mainland but the UK and America was a little difficult but this tribute to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart seemed to do the trick. On the back of this the Video was a great eye catcher showing Falco as Amadeus through the times in a formal jacket to the wacky pink wig with a modern crowd of bikers mixing with 18th century patrons. Weird but it worked somehow! The Song was written by Falco and his Dutch pals the Bolland Brothers. The song has been proved popular in recent polls about the best of the 1980s and the song has really stood the test of time.
Belouis Some - Imagination
#
This little gem became a huge hit for Belouis Some in 1986 after being re-released following disappointment in 1985. The song reached number 17 in the UK charts and reached the top 100 in America. Released on Parlophone records it was written by Belouis and produced by Thompson and Barbiero who had worked with the likes of Metallica, Madonna, Korn and Public enemy amongst others. The song was noted for it's video which featured nudity and caused controversy in many corners but this seemed to add fuel to the sales of the song as well as sound which proved popular on radio and the dance floor.
Simple Minds - Promised you a Miracle
This was the bands first commercial breakthrough in 1982 and peaked at number 13 in the UK charts. The song was released from the New Gold Dream album and the song help trigger a long sustained attack on the charts right up to the mid 1990s. This song and the album saw a move away towards to the electronic dance and the song was noted for it's electronic keyboard beat from Mick Macneill and combined with the deft riffs on guitar by Charlie Burchill. The song was released on Virgin and was written by Simple Minds and Produced by Pete Walsh and many critics defined this song as one of the bands most complete sounds. A true gem.
Kraftwerk - The Model
These guys were the originators of the electronic based sound. Starting in the early 1970s they produced some of the most innovative work on the music scene. Originally written and recorded in the late seventies by Hutter, Bartos and Schultz, the song went onto be number one in the UK in 1982 by a bizarre Circumstance. The song was released as a b side to 'Computer Love' in 1981 and the song reached the top 30 in the UK. However, DJ's and Radio were more interested in the B side and as a result EMI released it as a stand alone single and the song reached number one as a consequence. The song was released against the bands wishes and as a result the band rarely perform this song. That said the song put Kraftwerk in to many people conscience and a true electronic classic.
ABC - the look of love
This band broke onto the mainstream from the Sheffield electric scene in the early 1980s. They were led by lead singer Martin Fry and the above song came off there debut album The Lexicon of Love. The song was on Mercury records and was produced by the legendary Trevor Horn and the song reached number 4 in the UK singles charts. This proved to be the bands biggest hit. The video promo also got heavy airplay on MTV and featured the old British scenes of Carnivals and Puppet shows. The Video also featured cameos from Trevor Horn and journo Paul Morley who later formed ZTT records and Art of Noise.
Howard Jones - What is Love?
This synth pop legend enjoyed a huge amount of success in the early 1980s and this song peaked at number two in the UK singles charts. It also enjoyed a Top 40 entry on the American charts. The song came of the critically acclaimed album Human's Lib. The song released on WEA records and was written by Howard and Bill Bryant and this saw a period of success for Howard with synth pop classics.
OMD - Maid of Orleans (Waltz of Joan of Arc)
OMD were a top class synth band from Liverpool with McCluskey and Humphries referred to as the Lennon- McCartney of the synth world. This particular song came from there successful album Architecture and Morality. This song release came on the back of the previous single Joan of Arc and this song was also a tribute to the lady. Maid of Orleans faired better in the charts in the UK although both songs did reach the top 5. The song was written to celebrate the 550th birthday of Joan of Arc and was prominently a instrumental song featuring bagpipes, violins and a choir to give it a electro ambient sound. The video promo was directed by Steve Barron who directed memorable videos for Michael Jackson and A-ha and Joan was played by Julia Tobin who at the time worked for the RSC. The song was written and produced by OMD and was released on the DinDisc label. The song reached number 4 in the UK charts and remains one of the best pieces of music during the synth explosion in the early 1980s.
The song was a big shift from there post punk days of the late 1970s as Joy division but the song showcased there talents on the electric dance scene. The song was released in 1987 and reached number 4 in the UK single charts and was there first song to hit the top 40 in America. The song was released as new material on there collection album 'substance' in 1987 and went on to become one of there famous songs. The video promo directed by Philippe Decoufle was a bizarre video with vibrant colours with dancers walking backwards and slapping each other furiously, it was compelling stuff. The song was written and produced by New Order and Stephen Hague and the song was released on the infamous Factory Records and assigned the FAC 183 label. A true classic song.
Ultravox - Vienna
Quite often a song comes along and for what ever reason although popular it never quite hits the top spot. Ultravox suffered that fate in 1981 where the song was number 2 for four weeks. It can be a combination of a better song or the British obsession with novelty records! unfortunately Ultravox suffered twice the first week to John Lennon and the next 3 weeks Joe Dolce 'shaddap your face'. The song was quite unique in it's sound with a mixture of Grand Piano, a deep synth bass and Viola solos in the middle. The song was based on the 1940s film 'The third man' which was based around the Austrian capital Vienna. This was reflected in the video the band produced which was very grandiose and suited the song. The song was written by all the Ultravox members and was produced by Conny Plank a famous German producer who worked with Kraftwerk and David Bowie amongst others. He was a big name in the synth electro sound and one Ultravox were keen to work with. The song is widely regarded as the anthem for the new romantic/synth pop era in the early 1980s and the song epitomised the new scene of music in the 1980s. The success helped encourage many more bands such as Depeche Mode to dominate the charts.
Lotus Eaters - The first picture of you
Lotus Eaters were a new wave synth band from Liverpool formed in the early 1980s. They shot to prominence after singing this song on BBC Radio 1 John Peel Sessions. The song sparked a plethora of record labels wanting to sign them up. They eventually signed to Arista Records and the song was produced by Nigel Gray who worked with the Police and Siouxsie and the Banshees. In 1983 the song received more radio air play than any other song that year. The song peaked at number 15 in the UK singles chart and the song is still played today for it's ambient sound which is easy on the ear for Radio. A true classic electric sound.
Tears for Fears - Mad World
This song in late 1982 took the charts by storm and peaked at number 3 in the UK charts and shot the band into the mainstream. The song was to be a b side to 'Pale Shelter' but decided it give its own life and what a masterstroke it was. The song was produced by Chris Hughes ex-Adam and the ants drummer and was written by Roland Orzabel about his images and dreams of his world. The promo video was a gloomy affair with Curt Smith trying to escape a room but was punctuated with the bizarre dance of Roland near the lake. The song was a popular one of the 1980s and can be seen on most compilations. The song was rejuvenated in 2003 when a remake for the Donnie Darko film saw the song become a Christmas Number One. A true classic synth/gloom song.
A flock of Seagulls - Wishing (If I had a photograph of you)
Possibly without sounding too hyped one of the all time classic new wave synth sounds of the early 1980s. This band from Liverpool scored there only top 10 UK hit with this gem. The song was released from the album Listen and was produced by the fijian maestro Mike Howlett who had success with OMD, Joan Armatrading, Gang of Four and Martha and the Muffins amongst others. The song was very heavily synth and became popular in the UK around that time and the success of this song was as good as it got for the Flocks but definitely opened the door for others to take on. such was it popularity it was heavily played on MTV early days due to it's futuristic appeal. The song was also voted in BBC Radio 6 2006 poll as the 2nd most popular synth song ever only beaten by Tubeway Army 'are friends electric?'. That gives you the measure of the song.
Art of Noise - Close (to the edit)
This innovative band became one of the best respected synth pop bands of its generation. The release of Close shown the full use of electronic music with sampling. Signed to ZTT records the founders of this label found time to form a four piece band and produce some classic material. The song was written and produced by Art of Noise in particular the key members were Trevor Horn and Paul Morley and the song became the first of three top 10 entries in the UK singles chart. The song was infamous for it's various remixes and was originally the unedited part of the earlier single 'Beat Box' but this song went onto become more successful.
Visage - Fade to Grey
Another classic electric song from the synthpop generation. Visage released this song late 1980 and the song went on to become a dance floor hit in the UK reaching the top 10 and was number one in various charts across Europe. The song was released on Polydor records around the same time as the album was released and was written and produced by Visage. Although the writing credits were given to Billy Currie, Chris Payne and Midge Ure. The French Lyrics were performed by Brigitte Arens who was Rusty Egan's girlfriend at the time. The song was also noted for it's video promo which featured the singer Steve Strange body being covered in paint and featured his friend Julia Fodor miming the French lyrics. The video was produced and directed by Godley & Crème. A true classic song which embraced the electric and euro pop feel and the song still holds relevance now.
Frankie goes to Hollywood - Relax
If there was one single that gained controversy in the 1980s then this was the one. It was the bands first single release and it didn't make much impact when released but when Radio One DJ Mike Read and the BBC refused to play the song for it's sexual nature and subsequently banned it, the song rose up the charts and reached number 1. Such was it's popularity it sold over 2 million copies and was the seventh best selling single in the UK. The song was pretty much in the charts for over a year and when they released there second single Two Tribes, Relax got another surge and was number 2! The band played the song originally on Channel 4 The Tube and a certain producer Trevor Horn saw this and signed them to ZTT records which he co owned with Paul Morley. He set to work on this and produced a more slick electronic sound. Once produced Paul Morley set to work on the marketing side where the Relax t-shirts etc..became the norm. Soon everyone heard of Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
David Bowie - Ashes to Ashes
This was a classic gem released in 1980 and was successful in its sound and the video promo that accompanied the song. The song was based on Major Tom who featured in his earlier work on space oddity. The song was a huge hit and reached number 1 on the UK single charts. It was released on RCA records and was produced as well by Bowie and his long time producer Tiny Visconti. The video was very iconic for the 1980s with Bowie in a Pierrot costume and leading certain group of new romantics including Steve Strange of the London Blitz kids. The video at the time cost over £250,000 and incorporated many visuals that were unusual at the time such as solarised colours. The song and video were a major influence on the New Romantic scene that followed shortly after. A true classic song.
Falco - Rock Me Amadeus
This song became the first German speaking song to hit number one in the UK and USA singles charts. Released in 1985 this Austrian artist enjoyed great success in Europe mainland but the UK and America was a little difficult but this tribute to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart seemed to do the trick. On the back of this the Video was a great eye catcher showing Falco as Amadeus through the times in a formal jacket to the wacky pink wig with a modern crowd of bikers mixing with 18th century patrons. Weird but it worked somehow! The Song was written by Falco and his Dutch pals the Bolland Brothers. The song has been proved popular in recent polls about the best of the 1980s and the song has really stood the test of time.
Belouis Some - Imagination
#
This little gem became a huge hit for Belouis Some in 1986 after being re-released following disappointment in 1985. The song reached number 17 in the UK charts and reached the top 100 in America. Released on Parlophone records it was written by Belouis and produced by Thompson and Barbiero who had worked with the likes of Metallica, Madonna, Korn and Public enemy amongst others. The song was noted for it's video which featured nudity and caused controversy in many corners but this seemed to add fuel to the sales of the song as well as sound which proved popular on radio and the dance floor.
Simple Minds - Promised you a Miracle
This was the bands first commercial breakthrough in 1982 and peaked at number 13 in the UK charts. The song was released from the New Gold Dream album and the song help trigger a long sustained attack on the charts right up to the mid 1990s. This song and the album saw a move away towards to the electronic dance and the song was noted for it's electronic keyboard beat from Mick Macneill and combined with the deft riffs on guitar by Charlie Burchill. The song was released on Virgin and was written by Simple Minds and Produced by Pete Walsh and many critics defined this song as one of the bands most complete sounds. A true gem.
Kraftwerk - The Model
These guys were the originators of the electronic based sound. Starting in the early 1970s they produced some of the most innovative work on the music scene. Originally written and recorded in the late seventies by Hutter, Bartos and Schultz, the song went onto be number one in the UK in 1982 by a bizarre Circumstance. The song was released as a b side to 'Computer Love' in 1981 and the song reached the top 30 in the UK. However, DJ's and Radio were more interested in the B side and as a result EMI released it as a stand alone single and the song reached number one as a consequence. The song was released against the bands wishes and as a result the band rarely perform this song. That said the song put Kraftwerk in to many people conscience and a true electronic classic.
ABC - the look of love
This band broke onto the mainstream from the Sheffield electric scene in the early 1980s. They were led by lead singer Martin Fry and the above song came off there debut album The Lexicon of Love. The song was on Mercury records and was produced by the legendary Trevor Horn and the song reached number 4 in the UK singles charts. This proved to be the bands biggest hit. The video promo also got heavy airplay on MTV and featured the old British scenes of Carnivals and Puppet shows. The Video also featured cameos from Trevor Horn and journo Paul Morley who later formed ZTT records and Art of Noise.
Howard Jones - What is Love?
This synth pop legend enjoyed a huge amount of success in the early 1980s and this song peaked at number two in the UK singles charts. It also enjoyed a Top 40 entry on the American charts. The song came of the critically acclaimed album Human's Lib. The song released on WEA records and was written by Howard and Bill Bryant and this saw a period of success for Howard with synth pop classics.
OMD - Maid of Orleans (Waltz of Joan of Arc)
OMD were a top class synth band from Liverpool with McCluskey and Humphries referred to as the Lennon- McCartney of the synth world. This particular song came from there successful album Architecture and Morality. This song release came on the back of the previous single Joan of Arc and this song was also a tribute to the lady. Maid of Orleans faired better in the charts in the UK although both songs did reach the top 5. The song was written to celebrate the 550th birthday of Joan of Arc and was prominently a instrumental song featuring bagpipes, violins and a choir to give it a electro ambient sound. The video promo was directed by Steve Barron who directed memorable videos for Michael Jackson and A-ha and Joan was played by Julia Tobin who at the time worked for the RSC. The song was written and produced by OMD and was released on the DinDisc label. The song reached number 4 in the UK charts and remains one of the best pieces of music during the synth explosion in the early 1980s.
Classic 80s singles
Joy Division - Love will tear us apart
A song that was written in 1979 by post punk band Joy Division but was released in April 1980 following the death of lead singer Ian Curtis. The lyrics written by Ian were about his marital issues with wife Deborah and the struggles they had. Following Ian's death, Deborah had the title inscribed on his tombstone. The single reached number 13 in the UK singles chart. The song was recorded for the BBC radio show John Peel Sessions and was then re-recorded for a single release. It is one of the few songs that Ian Curtis played an instrument on, in this he played Guitar. The track was produced by Martin Hannett whose legendary production skills were being courted by many including a youthful band by the name of U2. Although the song in the UK never reached the top 10 it has been recognised as a popular and influential song. It's true legacy is that in the NME poll it was the best single of all time in 2002. To further cement this earlier this year in NME 60th anniversary it was named as top song in the best 100 songs over the last 60 years. It's a song that has been recorded by many artists in differing guises such is the popularity of the song. The remaining members of Joy Division who later went on to reform as New Order never played that song until they were inaugurated into the rock and roll hall of fame. Following that they went onto play more of the Joy Division set. It is one of those songs that has had a profound effect on the music scene and one that never gets tired of hearing.
To get the download from Amazon
The Specials - Ghost Town
The song was released in 1981 just as the band were about to go through a reorganisation they hit number one in the summer of 1981. The song described the issues that were going on in Britain such as unemployment, nationalisation, urban decay. There was inner city violence and the song aptly described Britain very well. The song was written by keyboardist Jerry Dammers who took into account a number of issues that Britain was facing and the song became a story for what the British public was facing. The song was produced by unknown John Collins who managed to produce that eerie ghost sound using the traditional synthesiser which was used at the beginning and end of the song. The song reached number one and stayed there for 3 weeks and was the band's most important contribution in there short existence but what an important message it sent. The cover of the single featured the iconic two skeletons sitting on a chair with one playing a piano. The video featured the band driving in a car around the empty urban streets of London. There was nothing fancy but it depicted the mood of the country and will remain an illustration of what was going on in Britain.
To download the tune
Ultravox - Vienna
Quite often a song comes along and for what ever reason although popular it never quite hits the top spot. Ultravox suffered that fate in 1981 where the song was number 2 for four weeks. It can be a combination of a better song or the British obsession with novelty records! unfortunatly Ultravox suffered twice the first week to John Lennon and the next 3 weeks Joe Dolce 'shaddap your face'. The song was quite unique in it's sound with a mixture of Grand Piano, a deep synth bass and Viola solos in the middle. The song was based on the 1940s film 'The third man' which was based around the Austrian capital Vienna. This was reflected in the video the band produced which was very grandiose and suited the song. The song was written by all the Ultravox members and was produced by Conny Plank a famous German producer who worked with Kraftwerk and David Bowie amongst others. He was a big name in the synth electro sound and one Ultravox were keen to work with. The song is widely regarded as the anthem for the new romantic/synth pop era in the early 1980s and the song epitomised the new scene of music in the 1980s. The success helped encourage many more bands such as Depeche Mode to dominate the charts.
Down load the tune
Frankie goes to Hollywood - Relax
If there was one single that gained controversy in the 1980s then this was the one. It was the bands first single release and it didn't make much impact when released but when Radio One DJ Mike Read and the BBC refused to play the song for it's sexual natureand subsequently banned it, the song rose up the charts and reached number 1. Such was it's popularity it sold over 2 million copies and was the seventh best selling single in the UK. The song was pretty much in the charts for over a year and when they released there second single Two Tribes, Relax got another surge and was number 2! The band played the song orginally on Channel 4 The Tube and a certain producer Trevor Horn saw this and signed them to ZTT records which he co owned with Paul Morley. He set to work on this and produced a more slick electronic sound. Once produced Paul Morley set to work on the marketing side where the Relax t-shirts etc..became the norm. Soon everyone heard of Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
To download the single
Alexander O'Neal - Fake
During the late 1980s there was a real surge in the R n B genre and there was no bigger character at the time than Alexander O'neal. He initially made his name as a backing singer and worked with the likes of Prince. He made a real impact when he duetted with Cherelle on Saturday Love. This thrusted him into the market and soon the release of his legendary album Hearsay would soon be in every home. One of the biggest singles was Fake which went to number one in America and hit number four in the UK. This was his only solo top 10 hit in the UK. The song was written and produced by James Harris and Terry Lewis on the Tabu label. The song was a relentless heavy percussioned bass song which became very friendly on the radio as well as the club scene. That was the peak for Alex on the singles charts but never the less made a contribution that wasto make RnB one of the most succesful genres of music in the decades to follow. To download the track
Dexy's Midnight runners - Come on Eileen
If there is one song that sums up the 1980s then this would one of the main tracks. A classic dancefloor filler with Celtic fused foot stomping sound that can get the most non conformist to dance. The song was released in 1982 and stormed it's way to the top and gave the band there 2nd number one in 3 years. The song was written by lead singer kevin Rowland, Jim Paterson and Billy Adams. It was released on the Mercury label and was produced by the Langley/winstanley co-op. The song started with folk sound and built up to a crescendo of foot stomping drumming over a bass line. A true disco floor classic. Also the song was famously renowned for its video, where the band wore Dungarees with no shirts. The Eileen featured in the video and the record sleeve was Maire Fahey who was the sister of Siobhan who was in Bananarama at the time. The song has sold 1.3 million copies and won the BRIT award in 1983 for the best single. To download the track Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver
At the height of there power the ants released a track from there album Prince Charming called Stand and Deliver. The single went straight into number 1 and stayed there 5 weeks. The song was released on the CBS label and the song was written by Ant and Pirroni and was produced by Chris Hughes. The song was famous more for it's video which featured Adam Ant as the dandy highwayman and the words stand and deliver was a common phrase for highwaymen. The single sold in excess of 1 million copies amd was easily there best selling single during there short life. To download the single Madness - Baggy Trousers
There was no band more productive in the 1980s than the Nutty Boys in terms of singles and weeks in the chart. One of there most famous singles was Baggy Trousers released in 1980. Madness had just signed to Stiff Records and released the album 'Absolutely' as follow up to 'One Step beyond' and the single Baggy trousers was released in September 1980. The song was written by Suggs and Chris Foreman and was about there schooldays in North London. The song spent 20 weeks in the charts and peaked at number 3 in the charts and was officially the 11th best selling single of 1980. The song would be best remembered for the video that accompained the song. It was shot in Kentish Town and showed sax player Lee Thompson hoisted in the air by a crane playing the saxophone. As a consequence of there wacky videos, they became more popular and every Madness single released was greeted with what the video would be like. The song is a very high paced which last just under 3 minutes but the band tweaked it for a well known beer advert in 2011 where they slowed the song right down and that version became very popular as the original. The song was produced by the duo Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley who worked a lot on the early Madness material.
To download the single
The Cars - Drive
This was a classic ballad song from the 1980s just when the ballad era was beginning to take hold on the singles and album charts. The song was released in 1984 and was on there album 'Heartbeat City' and the song proved to be there biggest hit worldwide. the song was written by band member Ric Ocasek and was produced by the legendary Mutt Lange who produced for Def Leppard, AC/DC and Nickelback amongst others and was released on the Elektra record label. The song initially eaked at number 5 in 1984 but the song took an unexpected twist a year later when at the Live Aid concert the song was used as a background montage showing the stricken famine in Africa. The interest in the song developed and the song peaked at number 4 in the charts. This proved to be the last song that made an entry on the charts but what a memorable song. To download the song, click below The Bangles - Manic Monday
Another classic ballady song sung by an all American girl group but the song was written by none other than Prince. Prince had written the song in 1984 which was intended for someone else but the Bangles got the nod in 1986 and was the first release from there second album 'different light'. The song was released on Columbia records and was produced by David Kahne who had previous with Paul McCartney, New Order and Linkin Park amongst others. The song peaked at number 2 in the USA and UK charts but ironically was kept off the top spot in America by Prince with his hit 'Kiss'. One of there most famous hits and only really eclipsed by 'eternal Flame' which hit the top spot both sides of the pond.
To download the tune, click below
Depeche Mode - New Life
New Life was the second single released by Depeche Mode and the song was a huge hit. The song was written by Vince Clarke before his departure from the band and he did feature on the track. The song was released in June 1981 and it began to gain popularity when the band appeared on Top of the Pops. That appearance was the breakthrough the band needed and the single peaked at number 11 in the UK charts. The song was produced by the band and Dan Miller who was the founder of Mute records. Still one of there popular songs and was generally regarded as one the front runners of the synth pop explosion.
To download the tune, click below
Kim Wilde - Kids in America
Like a bolt from the blue this young lady came onto the scene in 1981 on the wave of the synth pop/new wave era. The song was very much a family affair. Kim Wilde brother Ricky who had flirted with pop fame a few years earlier had done the music work for this and enlisted the help of his dad Marty who himself was a pop star in the 1950s/1960s to write the lyrics. The track was also produced by Ricky on the RAK label and the single released as Kim Wilde the solo artist. The song was a huge hit in the UK and peaked at number two in the UK singles charts only kept of the top by Shakin Stevens This Ole House and the song hit the top 30 in America a year later. Kim Wilde rock chick appeal ensured the song had a lasting appeal along with the video promo that went with it. The song has been covered by many including Nirvana, Bloodhound Gang to Atomic Kitten and One Direction. A right mix of genres.
To download the tune, click below
Fiction Factory - Feels like Heaven
Released in 1983 on the back of the rise of new wave and this Scottish band were one of the early movers in the synth era with this classic song. The song was written by lead singer Kevin Patterson and keyboardist Eddie Jordan and the song reached number 6 in the UK single charts. The band also produced the track and was released on CBS records. This was as good as it got for the band as subsequent album and single releases failed to dent the charts in the UK and the band then called it a day. However, this gem they left was well worth it as the song is featured heavily on many 1980 compilations.
The Adventures - Broken Land
The Adventures were a Northern Irish Pop rock band who found some limited fame in the late 1980s. The band moved to London after being backed by the pop mogul Simon Fuller and the release of the album 'Sea of love' proved to be the catalyst the band needed. The album performed well and broke into the top 30 in the UK album charts but the lead single was a classic. The release of 'Broken Land' was well received and peaked at number 20 in the charts and was reported to be the most played song on BBC Radio 1 during 1988. The song was written by the guitarist Pat Gribben and produced by Garry Bell on Elektra Records and the song spent 10 weeks on the UK charts before disappearing. Following singles released proved a bit harder to follow with not one denting the top 40 but they can be pleased with this Jewell they released.
To download the tune, click below
Roxy Music - Jealous Guy
There are certain groups and artistes one should avoid when doing covers. The Beatles and John Lennon would be a case in point. Roxy Music did that and put there own unique style to a John Lennon song from the 1970s and transformed the song and earned a number one spot in the UK. The song was recorded and released as a tribute to John Lennon who was murdered in 1980. The song was released on Polydor records and was produced by Bryan Ferry and Rhett Davies. The song was very popular and became one of Roxy Music famous hits. The band also appeared at Live Aid in 1985 and showcased this song. A true classic song with full of emotion in a wonderful tribute to John Lennon. One of the rare occasion where a cover has been fully justified.
A song that was written in 1979 by post punk band Joy Division but was released in April 1980 following the death of lead singer Ian Curtis. The lyrics written by Ian were about his marital issues with wife Deborah and the struggles they had. Following Ian's death, Deborah had the title inscribed on his tombstone. The single reached number 13 in the UK singles chart. The song was recorded for the BBC radio show John Peel Sessions and was then re-recorded for a single release. It is one of the few songs that Ian Curtis played an instrument on, in this he played Guitar. The track was produced by Martin Hannett whose legendary production skills were being courted by many including a youthful band by the name of U2. Although the song in the UK never reached the top 10 it has been recognised as a popular and influential song. It's true legacy is that in the NME poll it was the best single of all time in 2002. To further cement this earlier this year in NME 60th anniversary it was named as top song in the best 100 songs over the last 60 years. It's a song that has been recorded by many artists in differing guises such is the popularity of the song. The remaining members of Joy Division who later went on to reform as New Order never played that song until they were inaugurated into the rock and roll hall of fame. Following that they went onto play more of the Joy Division set. It is one of those songs that has had a profound effect on the music scene and one that never gets tired of hearing.
To get the download from Amazon
The Specials - Ghost Town
The song was released in 1981 just as the band were about to go through a reorganisation they hit number one in the summer of 1981. The song described the issues that were going on in Britain such as unemployment, nationalisation, urban decay. There was inner city violence and the song aptly described Britain very well. The song was written by keyboardist Jerry Dammers who took into account a number of issues that Britain was facing and the song became a story for what the British public was facing. The song was produced by unknown John Collins who managed to produce that eerie ghost sound using the traditional synthesiser which was used at the beginning and end of the song. The song reached number one and stayed there for 3 weeks and was the band's most important contribution in there short existence but what an important message it sent. The cover of the single featured the iconic two skeletons sitting on a chair with one playing a piano. The video featured the band driving in a car around the empty urban streets of London. There was nothing fancy but it depicted the mood of the country and will remain an illustration of what was going on in Britain.
To download the tune
Ultravox - Vienna
Quite often a song comes along and for what ever reason although popular it never quite hits the top spot. Ultravox suffered that fate in 1981 where the song was number 2 for four weeks. It can be a combination of a better song or the British obsession with novelty records! unfortunatly Ultravox suffered twice the first week to John Lennon and the next 3 weeks Joe Dolce 'shaddap your face'. The song was quite unique in it's sound with a mixture of Grand Piano, a deep synth bass and Viola solos in the middle. The song was based on the 1940s film 'The third man' which was based around the Austrian capital Vienna. This was reflected in the video the band produced which was very grandiose and suited the song. The song was written by all the Ultravox members and was produced by Conny Plank a famous German producer who worked with Kraftwerk and David Bowie amongst others. He was a big name in the synth electro sound and one Ultravox were keen to work with. The song is widely regarded as the anthem for the new romantic/synth pop era in the early 1980s and the song epitomised the new scene of music in the 1980s. The success helped encourage many more bands such as Depeche Mode to dominate the charts.
Down load the tune
Frankie goes to Hollywood - Relax
If there was one single that gained controversy in the 1980s then this was the one. It was the bands first single release and it didn't make much impact when released but when Radio One DJ Mike Read and the BBC refused to play the song for it's sexual natureand subsequently banned it, the song rose up the charts and reached number 1. Such was it's popularity it sold over 2 million copies and was the seventh best selling single in the UK. The song was pretty much in the charts for over a year and when they released there second single Two Tribes, Relax got another surge and was number 2! The band played the song orginally on Channel 4 The Tube and a certain producer Trevor Horn saw this and signed them to ZTT records which he co owned with Paul Morley. He set to work on this and produced a more slick electronic sound. Once produced Paul Morley set to work on the marketing side where the Relax t-shirts etc..became the norm. Soon everyone heard of Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
To download the single
Alexander O'Neal - Fake
During the late 1980s there was a real surge in the R n B genre and there was no bigger character at the time than Alexander O'neal. He initially made his name as a backing singer and worked with the likes of Prince. He made a real impact when he duetted with Cherelle on Saturday Love. This thrusted him into the market and soon the release of his legendary album Hearsay would soon be in every home. One of the biggest singles was Fake which went to number one in America and hit number four in the UK. This was his only solo top 10 hit in the UK. The song was written and produced by James Harris and Terry Lewis on the Tabu label. The song was a relentless heavy percussioned bass song which became very friendly on the radio as well as the club scene. That was the peak for Alex on the singles charts but never the less made a contribution that wasto make RnB one of the most succesful genres of music in the decades to follow. To download the track
Dexy's Midnight runners - Come on Eileen
If there is one song that sums up the 1980s then this would one of the main tracks. A classic dancefloor filler with Celtic fused foot stomping sound that can get the most non conformist to dance. The song was released in 1982 and stormed it's way to the top and gave the band there 2nd number one in 3 years. The song was written by lead singer kevin Rowland, Jim Paterson and Billy Adams. It was released on the Mercury label and was produced by the Langley/winstanley co-op. The song started with folk sound and built up to a crescendo of foot stomping drumming over a bass line. A true disco floor classic. Also the song was famously renowned for its video, where the band wore Dungarees with no shirts. The Eileen featured in the video and the record sleeve was Maire Fahey who was the sister of Siobhan who was in Bananarama at the time. The song has sold 1.3 million copies and won the BRIT award in 1983 for the best single. To download the track Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver
At the height of there power the ants released a track from there album Prince Charming called Stand and Deliver. The single went straight into number 1 and stayed there 5 weeks. The song was released on the CBS label and the song was written by Ant and Pirroni and was produced by Chris Hughes. The song was famous more for it's video which featured Adam Ant as the dandy highwayman and the words stand and deliver was a common phrase for highwaymen. The single sold in excess of 1 million copies amd was easily there best selling single during there short life. To download the single Madness - Baggy Trousers
There was no band more productive in the 1980s than the Nutty Boys in terms of singles and weeks in the chart. One of there most famous singles was Baggy Trousers released in 1980. Madness had just signed to Stiff Records and released the album 'Absolutely' as follow up to 'One Step beyond' and the single Baggy trousers was released in September 1980. The song was written by Suggs and Chris Foreman and was about there schooldays in North London. The song spent 20 weeks in the charts and peaked at number 3 in the charts and was officially the 11th best selling single of 1980. The song would be best remembered for the video that accompained the song. It was shot in Kentish Town and showed sax player Lee Thompson hoisted in the air by a crane playing the saxophone. As a consequence of there wacky videos, they became more popular and every Madness single released was greeted with what the video would be like. The song is a very high paced which last just under 3 minutes but the band tweaked it for a well known beer advert in 2011 where they slowed the song right down and that version became very popular as the original. The song was produced by the duo Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley who worked a lot on the early Madness material.
To download the single
The Cars - Drive
This was a classic ballad song from the 1980s just when the ballad era was beginning to take hold on the singles and album charts. The song was released in 1984 and was on there album 'Heartbeat City' and the song proved to be there biggest hit worldwide. the song was written by band member Ric Ocasek and was produced by the legendary Mutt Lange who produced for Def Leppard, AC/DC and Nickelback amongst others and was released on the Elektra record label. The song initially eaked at number 5 in 1984 but the song took an unexpected twist a year later when at the Live Aid concert the song was used as a background montage showing the stricken famine in Africa. The interest in the song developed and the song peaked at number 4 in the charts. This proved to be the last song that made an entry on the charts but what a memorable song. To download the song, click below The Bangles - Manic Monday
Another classic ballady song sung by an all American girl group but the song was written by none other than Prince. Prince had written the song in 1984 which was intended for someone else but the Bangles got the nod in 1986 and was the first release from there second album 'different light'. The song was released on Columbia records and was produced by David Kahne who had previous with Paul McCartney, New Order and Linkin Park amongst others. The song peaked at number 2 in the USA and UK charts but ironically was kept off the top spot in America by Prince with his hit 'Kiss'. One of there most famous hits and only really eclipsed by 'eternal Flame' which hit the top spot both sides of the pond.
To download the tune, click below
Depeche Mode - New Life
New Life was the second single released by Depeche Mode and the song was a huge hit. The song was written by Vince Clarke before his departure from the band and he did feature on the track. The song was released in June 1981 and it began to gain popularity when the band appeared on Top of the Pops. That appearance was the breakthrough the band needed and the single peaked at number 11 in the UK charts. The song was produced by the band and Dan Miller who was the founder of Mute records. Still one of there popular songs and was generally regarded as one the front runners of the synth pop explosion.
To download the tune, click below
Kim Wilde - Kids in America
Like a bolt from the blue this young lady came onto the scene in 1981 on the wave of the synth pop/new wave era. The song was very much a family affair. Kim Wilde brother Ricky who had flirted with pop fame a few years earlier had done the music work for this and enlisted the help of his dad Marty who himself was a pop star in the 1950s/1960s to write the lyrics. The track was also produced by Ricky on the RAK label and the single released as Kim Wilde the solo artist. The song was a huge hit in the UK and peaked at number two in the UK singles charts only kept of the top by Shakin Stevens This Ole House and the song hit the top 30 in America a year later. Kim Wilde rock chick appeal ensured the song had a lasting appeal along with the video promo that went with it. The song has been covered by many including Nirvana, Bloodhound Gang to Atomic Kitten and One Direction. A right mix of genres.
To download the tune, click below
Fiction Factory - Feels like Heaven
Released in 1983 on the back of the rise of new wave and this Scottish band were one of the early movers in the synth era with this classic song. The song was written by lead singer Kevin Patterson and keyboardist Eddie Jordan and the song reached number 6 in the UK single charts. The band also produced the track and was released on CBS records. This was as good as it got for the band as subsequent album and single releases failed to dent the charts in the UK and the band then called it a day. However, this gem they left was well worth it as the song is featured heavily on many 1980 compilations.
The Adventures - Broken Land
The Adventures were a Northern Irish Pop rock band who found some limited fame in the late 1980s. The band moved to London after being backed by the pop mogul Simon Fuller and the release of the album 'Sea of love' proved to be the catalyst the band needed. The album performed well and broke into the top 30 in the UK album charts but the lead single was a classic. The release of 'Broken Land' was well received and peaked at number 20 in the charts and was reported to be the most played song on BBC Radio 1 during 1988. The song was written by the guitarist Pat Gribben and produced by Garry Bell on Elektra Records and the song spent 10 weeks on the UK charts before disappearing. Following singles released proved a bit harder to follow with not one denting the top 40 but they can be pleased with this Jewell they released.
To download the tune, click below
Roxy Music - Jealous Guy
There are certain groups and artistes one should avoid when doing covers. The Beatles and John Lennon would be a case in point. Roxy Music did that and put there own unique style to a John Lennon song from the 1970s and transformed the song and earned a number one spot in the UK. The song was recorded and released as a tribute to John Lennon who was murdered in 1980. The song was released on Polydor records and was produced by Bryan Ferry and Rhett Davies. The song was very popular and became one of Roxy Music famous hits. The band also appeared at Live Aid in 1985 and showcased this song. A true classic song with full of emotion in a wonderful tribute to John Lennon. One of the rare occasion where a cover has been fully justified.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Classic albums
We will look at the classic albums from the 1980s.
The first one we will look at is U2 The Joshua Tree. U2 The Joshua Tree (released 1987) The album was released in 1987 and was U2 first album in 3 years and represented a more rockier album than the previous The unforgettable fire.
It was widely reported that this album could have been a double album and that the band had so much material that they could not fit on one album. It was decided that any singles released would feature 2 tracks on the b side and classic U2 songs such as Sweetest Thing, Silver and Gold, luminous times and Walk on Water were relegated to b sides.
They eventually decided on the 11 tracks which arguably was one of there strongest albums. The album followed a central theme of America carrying on from the previous album and promoted a number of different sounds from blues, gospel to pyschedelic rock and the album went to sell 25 million copies and went on to receive critical acclaim. The 3 singles that were released in the Uk represented how diverse U2 sounded with the ballad With or without you, to the gospel sounding I still havn't found what i'm looking for to the rockier Where the streets have no name.
The band had several interruptions during recordings with an Amnesty tour they had committed to and then the death of Bono's personal assistant Greg Carroll died in a motorcycle accident. They managed to get back on track and produce a masterpiece. The album was produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno and was recorded and mixed by Flood and Steve Lilywhite. When ready to be released Bono had some doubts as to the quality but Island records persisted and released via a huge marketing campaign and was the first album to be released on Vinyl, CD and cassette on the same day. The record was an instant success and the attention the record got shot U2 into the top echelon of rock music, soon they were everywhere and even a front cover appearance on Time magazine as Rocks hottest ticket cemented there appreciation over in America.
I can remember the day I purchased the album and was one of those albums where you cannot be disappointed. Every song was a classic and was well crafted and if you think back to the songs that didn't make the cut you just know how good this album is.
The black cover and the four moody rock stars being photographed just gave the album the edge. The band shot the pictures at a desert in California by Anton Corbijn and became the symbol for U2 and a pilgrimage place for U2 fans to visit and try and find the tree. A classic album and those tracks in order are Where the streets have no name, I still havn't found what im looking for, With or without you, Bullet the blue sky, Running to stand still, Red hill mining town, In gods country, Trip through your wires, One tree hill, Exit and Mothers of the disappeared
INXS - Kick (1987)
INXS were a Australian band that benn going for 10 years with relative success but one album helped them crack the US/UK market. The album Kick was there 6th studio album and the success of the album was made up of four huge hits that came off the album.
INXS went for a friendly rock radio sound to which the record label Atlantic were not convinced this would work. The idea of the record is that every song could be a potential 3 minute radio song which obvioulsy appealed to the radio market particularly in America.
The band released four songs of the album all became huge anthems for the band and became stadium favourites. The songs in question were 'new sensation', 'devil inside', 'need you tonight' and the classic 'never tear us apart'. All the songs hit the top 10 in USA and 'Need you tonight' went number 2 in the UK which was there biggest hit of the album.
Tracks on the album Guns in the sky, New sensation, Devil inside, Need you tonight, Mediate, The loved one, Wild life, Never tear us apart, Mystify, Kick, Calling all nations and Tiny daggers The album has deservedly received critical acclaim and for me it is an easy listening upbeat album without any weak link, a truly global album as the 11th song indicated Calling all nations. A classic album.
Simple Minds - Once upon a Time (1985)
Simple Minds were on a wave of success when this album was released. They had huge success in the UK and Europe and they finally cracked America with a number 1 hit Don't you forget about me.
They then released the album on the back of this but omitted Don't you forget about me. The album was there seventh studio album and was there most succesful album at the time.
The album went to number one in the UK and the album spawned four singles which all hit the top 20 in the UK. Alive and Kicking peaked at no.7 and the follow up All the things she said hit no.9. As the album sales gathered Sanctify yourself got to no.10 and finally Ghostdancing managed to peak at no.13.
The album was produced by Jimmy Iovine who worked with U2 and Tom Petty and Bob Clearmountain who was responsible for defining INXS sound. The album featured the backing singer talent of Robin Clark who had previously worked with David Bowie and Luther Van Dross.
The tracks on the album were Once upon a time, All the things she said, Ghostdancing, Alive and Kicking, Oh jungleland, I wish you were here, Sanctify yourself and Come a long way The album and it's content was responsible for most of there stadium anthems and is widely regarded as one of there finest pieces of work.
Madness - Absolutely (1980)
This saw Madness release the follow up to the debut album 'one step beyond' and this was to prove one of the popular albums Madness released. The album peaked at number 2 in the UK album charts and the album spawned three top 10 singles also in the UK charts. Those releases were Baggy trousers, Embarrassment and Return of the los palmas 7.
The album lasted just under 40 minutes but featured 14 songs and was produced by Langer and Winstanley on stiff records. The name of the album was reported to be the catchphrase of the bands tour manager Tony Duffield. The cover of the album featured the band outside a tube station in Camden keeping the local links to which the band were famed for.
Tracks on the album Baggy trousers, Embarrassment, ERNIE, Close Escape, Not home today, On the beat pete, Solid gone, Take it or leave it, Shadow of fear, Dissapear. Overdone, In the rain You said The return of the los palmas 7
To purchase the album
The Specials - More Specials (1980)
The 1980s saw many genre of music come to the fore and one of the early ones in the 1980s was the Ska revival primarily in the Midlands.
One of the chief architects was the Specials. After there debut self titled album, the pressure was on to continue the success of what they started. The debut album was a bit hard hitting and a more hard beat sound, the follow up was a complete change still with the Ska sound but incorporating other influences such as Lounge music.
They also worked with different artisites on the album which included fellow Ska brothers such as Rhoda Dakar from the Body Snatchers and Lee Thompson from Madness. They also worked with American all girl rock band The GoGo's who included a certain Belinda Carlisle. The album did hit the top 5 in the UK album charts and off the album 2 singles Stereotype and Do Nothing hit the top 10 in the UK singles charts. the album was released on the iconic 2 Tone label and was produced by the originator of the revival Jerry Dammers.
The album hit the top 100 in America and included the iconic song Rat Race but this was not included on the UK version of the album.
The tracks on the album Enjoy yourself, Man at C&A, Hey, little rich girl, Do Nothing, Pearls Café, Sock it to 'em JB, Stereotype, Holiday Fortnight, I can't stand it, International Jet set and Enjoy yourself (reprise)
To listen or purchase
Joy Division - Closer (1980)
Some albums get to number one and then disappear into the emptiness of time. Others may not get that pivotal spot but will make an impression well beyond its year. Joy Division final album is that in the latter category and has sparked much debate regarding the material, the photography and the title of the album.
The album was released in 1980 by Factory Records following the death of lead singer Ian Curtis and is widely regarded as the blueprint for the Goth Rock genre. The album like the debut album Unknown Pleasures was produced by Martin Hannett and the album peaked at number 6 in the UK album charts.
The cover photo on the album depicts a family tomb originating from Genoa in Italy and was designed by Peter Saville as he did on the debut album. The songs on the album all lead to possible suggestions regarding Ian Curtis mind such as The Eternal, Isolation and Passover which illuminated a possible contemplation that this would be his final masterpiece.
The album is often cited in one of the must albums to listen to. The sound of the album does have a more atmospheric feel than the debut album and considering the circumstances it was released in it gives the impression that this could not get any better. Famously, the band did not release singles of any albums prefering to keep the two matters seperate.
The tracks include Atrocity, Exhibition, Isolation, Passover, Colony, A means to an end, Heart and Soul, Twenty four hours and The eternal Decades
To listen to or purchase
Paul Young - No Parlez (1983)
This was the debut album from the Luton based singer Paul Young. The album consisted of pop, soul and elements of new wave on the album.
The album was released in 1983 and the success of the album exceeded all expectations. No Parlez reached number one on the UK album charts and stayed there for five weeks. In fact the album stayed in the top 100 for 119 weeks and sales nearly exceeding one million.
The album was released on the CBS label and was produced by Laurie Latham who had previous credits with Echo & bunnymen, The Stranglers and Squeeze. The album featured three huge singles with Where ever I lay my Hat reaching number one, come back and stay and love of the common people also reaching the top 5. The album also featured many cover versions of soul and new wave and one song he attempted was Joy Division Love will tear us apart.
He also wrote a couple of songs with the moody Broken Man and tender trap. In 2008 the album was re-released as part of a 25th Anniversary tour.
The tracks include Come back and stay, Love will tear us apart, Wherever I lay my hat, Ku Ku Kurama, No parlez, Behind your smile, Love of the common people, Oh women, Iron out the rough spots, Broken man, Tender trap and Sex
The first one we will look at is U2 The Joshua Tree. U2 The Joshua Tree (released 1987) The album was released in 1987 and was U2 first album in 3 years and represented a more rockier album than the previous The unforgettable fire.
It was widely reported that this album could have been a double album and that the band had so much material that they could not fit on one album. It was decided that any singles released would feature 2 tracks on the b side and classic U2 songs such as Sweetest Thing, Silver and Gold, luminous times and Walk on Water were relegated to b sides.
They eventually decided on the 11 tracks which arguably was one of there strongest albums. The album followed a central theme of America carrying on from the previous album and promoted a number of different sounds from blues, gospel to pyschedelic rock and the album went to sell 25 million copies and went on to receive critical acclaim. The 3 singles that were released in the Uk represented how diverse U2 sounded with the ballad With or without you, to the gospel sounding I still havn't found what i'm looking for to the rockier Where the streets have no name.
The band had several interruptions during recordings with an Amnesty tour they had committed to and then the death of Bono's personal assistant Greg Carroll died in a motorcycle accident. They managed to get back on track and produce a masterpiece. The album was produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno and was recorded and mixed by Flood and Steve Lilywhite. When ready to be released Bono had some doubts as to the quality but Island records persisted and released via a huge marketing campaign and was the first album to be released on Vinyl, CD and cassette on the same day. The record was an instant success and the attention the record got shot U2 into the top echelon of rock music, soon they were everywhere and even a front cover appearance on Time magazine as Rocks hottest ticket cemented there appreciation over in America.
I can remember the day I purchased the album and was one of those albums where you cannot be disappointed. Every song was a classic and was well crafted and if you think back to the songs that didn't make the cut you just know how good this album is.
The black cover and the four moody rock stars being photographed just gave the album the edge. The band shot the pictures at a desert in California by Anton Corbijn and became the symbol for U2 and a pilgrimage place for U2 fans to visit and try and find the tree. A classic album and those tracks in order are Where the streets have no name, I still havn't found what im looking for, With or without you, Bullet the blue sky, Running to stand still, Red hill mining town, In gods country, Trip through your wires, One tree hill, Exit and Mothers of the disappeared
INXS - Kick (1987)
INXS were a Australian band that benn going for 10 years with relative success but one album helped them crack the US/UK market. The album Kick was there 6th studio album and the success of the album was made up of four huge hits that came off the album.
INXS went for a friendly rock radio sound to which the record label Atlantic were not convinced this would work. The idea of the record is that every song could be a potential 3 minute radio song which obvioulsy appealed to the radio market particularly in America.
The band released four songs of the album all became huge anthems for the band and became stadium favourites. The songs in question were 'new sensation', 'devil inside', 'need you tonight' and the classic 'never tear us apart'. All the songs hit the top 10 in USA and 'Need you tonight' went number 2 in the UK which was there biggest hit of the album.
Tracks on the album Guns in the sky, New sensation, Devil inside, Need you tonight, Mediate, The loved one, Wild life, Never tear us apart, Mystify, Kick, Calling all nations and Tiny daggers The album has deservedly received critical acclaim and for me it is an easy listening upbeat album without any weak link, a truly global album as the 11th song indicated Calling all nations. A classic album.
Simple Minds - Once upon a Time (1985)
Simple Minds were on a wave of success when this album was released. They had huge success in the UK and Europe and they finally cracked America with a number 1 hit Don't you forget about me.
They then released the album on the back of this but omitted Don't you forget about me. The album was there seventh studio album and was there most succesful album at the time.
The album went to number one in the UK and the album spawned four singles which all hit the top 20 in the UK. Alive and Kicking peaked at no.7 and the follow up All the things she said hit no.9. As the album sales gathered Sanctify yourself got to no.10 and finally Ghostdancing managed to peak at no.13.
The album was produced by Jimmy Iovine who worked with U2 and Tom Petty and Bob Clearmountain who was responsible for defining INXS sound. The album featured the backing singer talent of Robin Clark who had previously worked with David Bowie and Luther Van Dross.
The tracks on the album were Once upon a time, All the things she said, Ghostdancing, Alive and Kicking, Oh jungleland, I wish you were here, Sanctify yourself and Come a long way The album and it's content was responsible for most of there stadium anthems and is widely regarded as one of there finest pieces of work.
Madness - Absolutely (1980)
This saw Madness release the follow up to the debut album 'one step beyond' and this was to prove one of the popular albums Madness released. The album peaked at number 2 in the UK album charts and the album spawned three top 10 singles also in the UK charts. Those releases were Baggy trousers, Embarrassment and Return of the los palmas 7.
The album lasted just under 40 minutes but featured 14 songs and was produced by Langer and Winstanley on stiff records. The name of the album was reported to be the catchphrase of the bands tour manager Tony Duffield. The cover of the album featured the band outside a tube station in Camden keeping the local links to which the band were famed for.
Tracks on the album Baggy trousers, Embarrassment, ERNIE, Close Escape, Not home today, On the beat pete, Solid gone, Take it or leave it, Shadow of fear, Dissapear. Overdone, In the rain You said The return of the los palmas 7
To purchase the album
The Specials - More Specials (1980)
The 1980s saw many genre of music come to the fore and one of the early ones in the 1980s was the Ska revival primarily in the Midlands.
One of the chief architects was the Specials. After there debut self titled album, the pressure was on to continue the success of what they started. The debut album was a bit hard hitting and a more hard beat sound, the follow up was a complete change still with the Ska sound but incorporating other influences such as Lounge music.
They also worked with different artisites on the album which included fellow Ska brothers such as Rhoda Dakar from the Body Snatchers and Lee Thompson from Madness. They also worked with American all girl rock band The GoGo's who included a certain Belinda Carlisle. The album did hit the top 5 in the UK album charts and off the album 2 singles Stereotype and Do Nothing hit the top 10 in the UK singles charts. the album was released on the iconic 2 Tone label and was produced by the originator of the revival Jerry Dammers.
The album hit the top 100 in America and included the iconic song Rat Race but this was not included on the UK version of the album.
The tracks on the album Enjoy yourself, Man at C&A, Hey, little rich girl, Do Nothing, Pearls Café, Sock it to 'em JB, Stereotype, Holiday Fortnight, I can't stand it, International Jet set and Enjoy yourself (reprise)
To listen or purchase
Joy Division - Closer (1980)
Some albums get to number one and then disappear into the emptiness of time. Others may not get that pivotal spot but will make an impression well beyond its year. Joy Division final album is that in the latter category and has sparked much debate regarding the material, the photography and the title of the album.
The album was released in 1980 by Factory Records following the death of lead singer Ian Curtis and is widely regarded as the blueprint for the Goth Rock genre. The album like the debut album Unknown Pleasures was produced by Martin Hannett and the album peaked at number 6 in the UK album charts.
The cover photo on the album depicts a family tomb originating from Genoa in Italy and was designed by Peter Saville as he did on the debut album. The songs on the album all lead to possible suggestions regarding Ian Curtis mind such as The Eternal, Isolation and Passover which illuminated a possible contemplation that this would be his final masterpiece.
The album is often cited in one of the must albums to listen to. The sound of the album does have a more atmospheric feel than the debut album and considering the circumstances it was released in it gives the impression that this could not get any better. Famously, the band did not release singles of any albums prefering to keep the two matters seperate.
The tracks include Atrocity, Exhibition, Isolation, Passover, Colony, A means to an end, Heart and Soul, Twenty four hours and The eternal Decades
To listen to or purchase
Paul Young - No Parlez (1983)
This was the debut album from the Luton based singer Paul Young. The album consisted of pop, soul and elements of new wave on the album.
The album was released in 1983 and the success of the album exceeded all expectations. No Parlez reached number one on the UK album charts and stayed there for five weeks. In fact the album stayed in the top 100 for 119 weeks and sales nearly exceeding one million.
The album was released on the CBS label and was produced by Laurie Latham who had previous credits with Echo & bunnymen, The Stranglers and Squeeze. The album featured three huge singles with Where ever I lay my Hat reaching number one, come back and stay and love of the common people also reaching the top 5. The album also featured many cover versions of soul and new wave and one song he attempted was Joy Division Love will tear us apart.
He also wrote a couple of songs with the moody Broken Man and tender trap. In 2008 the album was re-released as part of a 25th Anniversary tour.
The tracks include Come back and stay, Love will tear us apart, Wherever I lay my hat, Ku Ku Kurama, No parlez, Behind your smile, Love of the common people, Oh women, Iron out the rough spots, Broken man, Tender trap and Sex
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